LaLiberte students celebrate last day of school

Two lucky students at the LaLiberte Elementary School in Raynham took home brand new bikes after their names were pulled in an end-of-the-year raffle.

Benjamin Paulin The Patriot Ledger @BPaulin_Ledger

Two students at LaLiberte Elementary School were riding in style on the last day of school Friday. Cody Reynolds and Kirsten Spearin were cheered on by their fellow classmates after their names were pulled in an end-of-the-year raffle to win new bicycles. Friday was the last day for the Bridgewater-Raynham Regional School District. Many other local districts – including Brockton, Easton and Stoughton – finish next week.

In Raynham, LaLiberte always ends in style – with a bike give-away.

Principal Dennis Bray said all students at the school were able to earn raffle tickets throughout the school year by demonstrating “good citizenship.”

“You had to demonstrate our care pledge every day, cooperating, acting responsibly, respecting yourselves and others and encouraging each other,” Bray told the students who were gathered in the gymnasium.

When teachers saw students demonstrate those values throughout the year they would give them a raffle ticket for a chance to win a brand new bike.

“I was thinking I wasn’t going to get it. I told my friends I bet I won’t get it. And then I got it!” said Reynolds, 8, who is in third grade.

“I was just shocked,” he said smiling. “It’s red, it’s got a star on the seat and it’s cool. I really like it.”

Reynolds said he plans to ride his bike all summer around his house.

Shy second grader Kirsten said she was thrilled to win her new white and pink bike.

She said she was sad that it was the last day of school but she was excited about doing either cheerleading or girl scouts over the summer.

After the bikes were given away, Bray gave special recognition to fourth grade teacher Gale Civale who was retiring after 36 years.

After his thanks, Civale and her students broke out into a flash mob. The students jumped up and clapped and danced in unison with their teacher to help celebrate her last day.

Bray wished the students well this summer, while also reminding them to do their summer reading.

“I want you to have lots of fun this summer with your family and your friends,” he said.